Jena Bradshaw is a former Youth Leader for the BU Tobacco and Vaping Prevention Program. She attended Simmons High School and was a member of the Honor Society and the National Society of High School Scholars. She is currently enrolled at Mississippi Delta Community College and majoring in Biology (Pre-Med). Jena was chosen to be a Youth Ambassador for The Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids. The Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids is a leading force in the fight to decrease tobacco usage and its deadly toll all over the world. They work to save lives by advocating for public policies that prevent kids from using tobacco products, help smokers quit and protect everyone from secondhand smoke. The following interview with Jena Bradshaw was conducted by BU Youth Leader Jayla Edwards.
Q: How do you feel about the BU Program?
A: I feel the BU Program is a great program for young adults to allow them to encourage their peers and community not to be involved with any tobacco products. This program is highly effective for those who have been involved with tobacco or may be influenced by its harmfulness and change their mindset.
Q: How has being a BU Youth Leader prepared you to be an Ambassador for the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids?
A: The BU Program allowed me to be more informed of the detrimental ways tobacco could ruin your life and how I could help others see and know the difference between different products. We all are aware that tobacco is bad for the body, but it is up to us to make the decision of not getting involved.
Q: Can you tell us a little about the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids?
A: The Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids allows young adults to experience the following: training with the media, legislative engagement, social media advocacy and plan community events involving tobacco prevention. This program is to help our country to recognize the influential power of tobacco and its prevention. One of the main lessons for the people is to know the youth has the power to help change the future, so put your trust in them!
Q: What is your role as a Youth Ambassador?
A: My role as an Ambassador is to help spread the message to others whether it is gained through words or actions. Even though I am just beginning my task, I will enjoy my opportunity to the fullest. Last year, Jena Bradshaw stated, “I am an inspirational person who likes to encourage people to move forward, Through the many years of my youth, I have strived to change the thoughts of others, hoping to lead them in the right direction.” We believe that Jena is well on her way in making a difference in the lives of others and in this world. We wish her the absolute best on her future endeavors.